The Equivalent Mean Absorption Cross Sections for the O2 Schumann-Runge Bands: Application to the H2O and NO Photodissociation Rates

Abstract

Absorption of solar radiation by O2 in the Schumann-Runge band region is important not only for the production of O(3P) in the atmosphere, but also for H2O and NO photodissociations which depend upon the rotational structure of the O2 absorption lines. The equivalent mean absorption cross sections for the O2 Schumann-Runge bands and NO band intensities are computed and presented in a form to be applicable in calculations of the O2, H2O and NO photodissociation rates under varied atmospheric conditions.